Wastewater systems and energy saving in urban India

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This paper examines the interdependency of water and energy in India's wastewater sector, where treatment plants consume significant energy. While energy-efficient technologies exist, their adoption in developing countries is slow. In India, only 10% of wastewater is treated, and energy demand is rising, highlighting the need for investment in energy-efficient solutions. The study investigates the conditions and instruments that facilitate integrated approaches to the water, energy, and food sectors (WEF-Nexus) across various wastewater systems in India. It identifies existing drivers and barriers to the adoption of energy-efficient technologies in urban wastewater management and explores how investments in resource- and lifecycle-oriented solutions can be improved. Key findings indicate that India's urban wastewater sector is largely locked into outdated practices, although some innovative initiatives are emerging. The diffusion of energy-efficient technologies is influenced by pricing, stricter regulations, and standard-setting. Privatization of treatment plant operations and green procurement can aid progress if implemented thoughtfully. Major barriers include inadequate cost recovery, entrenched interests, insufficient operation and maintenance skills, and complex bureaucratic processes. Additionally, land and water scarcity can drive planning changes, contingent on local circumstances.